HELLP Syndrome

What is HELLP syndrome?

HELLP syndrome is a disorder related to preeclampsia and eclampsia (high blood pressure problems of pregnancy). The actual incidence is not known, but it appears to develop in 1 to 2 out of 1,000 pregnancies, and in 10% to 20% of pregnant women with severe preeclampsia or eclampsia. It usually develops before delivery but may occur after delivery as well. HELLP syndrome consists of the following problems:

Low platelets--cells found in the blood that are needed to help the blood to clot in order to control bleeding.

What causes HELLP syndrome?

The cause of HELLP syndrome is unknown. Some conditions may increase the risk of developing HELLP syndrome, including the following:

Preeclampsia or eclampsia during pregnancy

Previous pregnancy with HELLP syndrome

Why is HELLP syndrome a concern?

In addition to the risks of high blood pressure during pregnancy, which include poor blood flow to organs and possible seizures, HELLP syndrome can cause other problems. The breakdown of red blood cells may cause anemia, and blood clotting problems may occur.

A serious blood clotting complication called disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) may lead to severe bleeding. Placental abruption (early detachment of the placenta) may also occur. HELLP syndrome can also cause rupture or bleeding of the liver, or a blockage of blood to the liver. Another possible serious complication is pulmonary edema (fluid buildup in the lungs). .

Severe disease may place the mother and fetus in danger and it may be necessary to deliver the baby early to prevent further complications. Recovery from HELLP syndrome may take several days after delivery. HELLP syndrome is a serious condition that can be life threatening for both mother and her baby.

What are the symptoms of HELLP syndrome?

The following are the most common symptoms of HELLP syndrome:

Right-sided upper abdominal pain or pain around the stomach

Nausea, vomiting

Headache

Increased blood pressure

Protein in the urine

Edema (swelling)

The symptoms of HELLP syndrome may look like other medical conditions, including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy such as gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.

How is HELLP syndrome diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical exam, other tests for HELLP syndrome may include:

Blood pressure measurement

Red blood cell count

Blood levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

Bilirubin level--a substance produced by the breakdown of red blood cells.

Liver function tests

Platelet count--cells found in the blood that are needed to help the blood clot to control bleeding.

Urine tests for protein

Treatment for HELLP syndrome

Treatment may include:

Bedrest (either at home or in the hospital may be recommended)

Blood transfusions (for severe anemia and low platelets)

Magnesium sulfate (to prevent seizures)

Antihypertensive medications (to reduce blood pressure)

Hospitalization and continuous fetal monitoring (to check the health of the fetus) may include:

Nonstress testing--a test that measures the fetal heart rate in response to the fetus' movements.

Biophysical profile--a test that combines nonstress test with ultrasound to observe the fetus.

Doppler flow studies--a type of ultrasound that uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through a blood vessel.

Lab testing of liver, urine, and blood (for changes that may signal worsening of HELLP syndrome)

Medications, called corticosteroids, that may help mature the lungs of the preterm fetus (lung immaturity is a major problem of premature babies)

Delivery (if HELLP syndrome worsens and endangers the well-being of the mother or fetus, then an early delivery may be necessary). Delivery is the only cure for HELLP syndrome.

Prevention of HELLP syndrome

Early identification of women at risk for HELLP syndrome may help prevent some complications of the disease. Education about the warning signs is also important because early recognition may help women receive treatment and prevent worsening of the disease.